If you hold a Commercial Driver’s License, a DUI charge can put everything you’ve worked for at risk. South Carolina applies stricter DUI rules to CDL holders, and the consequences often extend far beyond fines or court appearances.
A single DUI arrest in Mount Pleasant or anywhere in Charleston County can lead to CDL disqualification, job loss, higher insurance costs, and long-term damage to your ability to earn a living. Acting quickly after an arrest is critical if you want to protect your license, your career, and your future.
What Makes a CDL DUI Different From a Regular DUI?
CDL DUI cases are treated more seriously because commercial drivers operate large vehicles, transport passengers, or haul hazardous materials. The law assumes a higher level of responsibility for CDL holders, which means less margin for error.
One of the most important things to understand is that South Carolina does not separate professional driving from personal driving. Even if you were arrested for DUI while driving your own vehicle, the charge can still affect your CDL and your ability to work. Many drivers are surprised to learn that an off-duty DUI can still trigger CDL penalties.
CDL DUI Legal Limits in South Carolina
The legal blood alcohol concentration limit for CDL drivers is 0.04 percent, which is half the limit for non-commercial drivers. This means a CDL holder can face DUI charges at alcohol levels that would not result in an arrest for most other drivers.
Because the threshold is lower, CDL DUI arrests can happen quickly, sometimes during routine traffic stops or minor accidents. A conviction can result in CDL disqualification, increased insurance premiums, and difficulty finding or keeping employment in the transportation industry.
Common Situations That Lead to CDL DUI Arrests
CDL DUI arrests often occur in situations drivers don’t expect, including:
- Routine traffic stops for speeding or equipment violations
- Accidents, even when no one is seriously injured
- Weigh stations or roadside checkpoints
- Off-duty driving in a personal vehicle
Regardless of how the arrest occurs, the impact on your CDL can be severe and immediate.
What Happens After a CDL DUI Arrest in South Carolina
After a CDL DUI arrest, two separate processes usually begin at the same time.
The criminal case moves through the Charleston County court system and determines whether you face fines, probation, mandatory programs, or jail time. These penalties can increase with prior offenses or higher BAC levels.
At the same time, administrative penalties may begin that affect your CDL and possibly your standard driver’s license. CDL disqualification is often mandatory and can start quickly, sometimes before your criminal case is resolved. Missing deadlines or waiting too long to act can limit your ability to challenge these penalties.
Can You Lose Your CDL for a DUI in South Carolina?
Yes. In many cases, a DUI conviction results in mandatory CDL disqualification, even if the arrest occurred in your personal vehicle.
For commercial drivers in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, losing a CDL often means losing the ability to work. A first CDL DUI offense typically results in at least a one-year disqualification. If hazardous materials were involved, that period can increase to three years. A second or subsequent DUI offense often leads to lifetime CDL disqualification, with very limited opportunities for reduction.
CDL DUI Penalties in South Carolina
CDL DUI penalties depend on the circumstances of the arrest and whether you have prior offenses.
A first CDL DUI offense generally results in CDL disqualification for at least one year. If hazardous materials were being transported, the disqualification period increases to three years.
A second or subsequent CDL DUI offense usually results in lifetime CDL disqualification unless specific conditions for reinstatement are met under strict regulations.
In addition to CDL penalties, state DUI penalties may apply. These can include suspension of your regular driver’s license, fines, mandatory education or treatment programs, ignition interlock requirements, and possible jail time. Together, these penalties can disrupt both your professional and personal life.
Why Timing Matters in a CDL DUI Case
Timing is especially important in CDL DUI cases. Evidence such as breath or blood test results, dashcam footage, and officer procedures must be reviewed as soon as possible.
Delays can result in lost evidence, missed deadlines to challenge CDL disqualification, and fewer options to protect your license. Early legal involvement gives your defense more flexibility and improves the chances of minimizing long-term damage to your career.
How a CDL DUI Lawyer Can Help Protect Your Career
A CDL DUI defense is about more than fighting criminal charges. It is about protecting your livelihood.
Joe Good carefully reviews every detail of a CDL DUI case, including the legality of the traffic stop, the administration of field sobriety tests, chemical testing accuracy, and officer compliance with required procedures. He looks for errors, violations, or weaknesses that can be used to challenge the prosecution’s case.
When possible, he works to reduce penalties, suppress improper evidence, or protect driving privileges. If necessary, he provides aggressive representation in court for drivers whose careers are on the line.
Speak With a Mount Pleasant CDL DUI Lawyer Today
A CDL DUI charge can change your life quickly. Waiting to act can reduce your options and increase the risk to your career and income.
Call (843) 920-6494 or complete the contact form to schedule a free consultation. Get clear answers about your CDL, your license, and your next steps before it’s too late.
Frequently Asked Questions About CDL DUI in South Carolina
What happens if I refuse a breath test with a CDL?
Refusing a breath test can result in at least a one-year CDL disqualification, even if you are not convicted of DUI. Repeat refusals can lead to longer penalties.
Can I drive my personal vehicle if my CDL is suspended?
Sometimes. A CDL disqualification may only affect commercial driving, but if your regular license is also suspended, you may not be able to drive at all.
How soon should I contact a lawyer after a CDL DUI arrest?
Immediately. DUI and CDL deadlines begin right after arrest, and waiting can reduce your options to protect your license and career.
